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Disability hate crime on the rise

There has also been a rise in extended sentences in cases involving hate crimes against someone with a disabilityGETTY IMAGES

Alleged hate crimes against disabled people are on the rise, the watchdog overseeing prosecutors has said.

A report this week from HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) showed that the number of cases identified as hate crimes was increasing. There were also more successful applications for increases to sentences after convictions in cases containing elements of disability hate crime.

The report, produced jointly with HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, makes several recommendations for improvement.

It calls for the identification and investigation of cases involving disability hate crime, and of the co-ordination of work between the police and Crown Prosecution Service in these matters.

The report also calls for better explanation to the courts and defence lawyers of the issues in cases…

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